updated 07:45 am EDT, Mon August 24, 2009

Nokia Booklet 3G

Nokia on Monday entered the computer business in earnest with the Booklet 3G, its first PC of any kind and its first netbook. The system has some typical netbook specs, such as an unidentified Intel Atom chip and a 10-inch display, but aims to exploit Nokia's experiences with batteries and cellular technology. The Booklet is one of the longest-lasting netbooks and should last up to 12 hours on a charge, according to Nokia; it also has its namesake built-in 3G and GPS to give it an Internet connection and navigation when away from Wi-Fi, including the use of Ovi Maps.

Its construction is also a rarity in the category and involves an aluminum shell that both stiffens the design and cuts the thickness down to 0.78 inches. An HDMI output suggests Nokia is using more advanced integrated graphics than on typical netbooks, which often use older GMA 500 or 950 video that doesn't support HDMI. Bluetooth and an SD card reader are stock.

Despite experience with its own Maemo Linux distribution, Nokia has decided to use Windows for the system. Most other details are unknown, but the company plans to reveal its launch window, prices and other more concrete details at Nokia World, which starts on September 2nd.

The entry into computers marks both the first fruits of Nokia's alliance with Intel as well as increasing overlap between computer and phone production, as traditional computer makers like Apple, Dell and HP have been launching or renewing phone efforts at the same time.